Fashion - How to Praise a Dancer like a Professional

Fashion - How to Praise a Dancer like a Professional

Photos by Natalie LarucciaText by Robert AbramsClothing modeled by Heather GehringOctober 15, 2003

Dance season is upon us, which means that there are many dancers who are going to be deserving of praise. Here is a little sure-fire advice on how to praise a dancer like a professional. We tested the method with Heather Gehring, one of our favorite dance performers and teachers.

Give your dancer a white Vendella rose. This beautiful specimen is from Flowers of the World. She will look at it, smell it, and then gaze at you. You now have her attention.

Next tell her that her performance was inspiring. Be sure to pick out one specific detail of her performance to praise. Doing so will let her know that you really were paying attention to her performance, and that you aren't just giving her generic flattery. Give her a moment to process your compliment, and then hand her one dozen more roses.

Finally, praise her, not just her performance. For instance, based on the photo at left, you might say "You have an exquisite line."

Flowers of the World sells a variety of beautiful flower arrangements for individuals and large special events. They can be reached at www.flowersoftheworld.com, by calling 1-800-770-3125 or at one of their several stores. The photos in this photo essay were shot at Flowers of the World's store at 150 West 55th Street in New York City (212-582-1850). Special thanks to Moshe, who let us use his store for this shoot, and Joseph, who was unfailingly helpful as we moved the furniture around and kept asking for the names of the flowers. The flowers at Flowers of the World not only look beautiful, they have a beautiful aroma as well.